Kayaking fun for everyone!
Kayak is the most convenient and cost-effective way to explore the rivers and lakes around you. Easy to transport and launch, kayaking is perfect for exploring those warm summer days at our local reservoirs, lakes, and coastlines. Kayaking can bring you closer to nature than any other type of boat or watercraft, whether you’re cruising serene streams to seek out wildlife, or making your way up a rushing river for an exhilarating ride through whitewater rapids.
The great thing about kayaking in West Cork is that it’s so easy to get started. You don’t need a lot of equipment, and there’s no special license or training needed. Nothing can compare to paddling through rivers and lakes and exploring nature from a whole new angle.
Kayaking is a great way to explore the beautiful waters around West Cork without having to go far from shore. Our kayak rentals allow you to explore the lagoon at your own pace for 30-60 minutes. We’ll supply all the equipment you need and give you a safety briefing, so you know what to do and where to go.
We Offer Kayaking Rentals!
When you’re at the Rosscarbery Lagoon, you’re never more than a few steps from the water. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a kayak and take off!
If you’re in the mood for a little adventure and want to get out on the water, we have just what you need. Our kayaking rentals are perfect for anyone looking for a fun way to spend some time on the water. We offer single kayaks and double kayaks/canadian canoes.
Kayaking is the perfect way to spend a day in the sun with your friends, family, or loved ones. Our kayaks are designed for comfort and safety, so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of our lake without worrying about getting into trouble. We have a variety of models available for rental, so there’s something for everyone!
Our kayaks are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis, and we recommend you reserve them in advance to make sure they are available when you arrive. We have single kayaks and double kayaks, so whether you’re looking for a quick spin or want to go out with your friends, you can do it all here.
full range of kayaks available
Kayaking Rentals
-
Kayaking is the use of a kayak for moving across water. It is distinguished from canoeing by the sitting position of the paddler and the number of blades on the paddle. A kayak is a low-to-the-water, canoe-like boat in which the paddler sits facing forward, legs in front, using a double-bladed paddle to pull front-to-back on one side and then the other in rotation.
-
Single Kayak €9
-
Double Kayak / Canadian Canoe €18
full range of kayaks available
Kayaking
-
Kayaking is the use of a kayak for moving across water. It is distinguished from canoeing by the sitting position of the paddler and the number of blades on the paddle. A kayak is a low-to-the-water, canoe-like boat in which the paddler sits facing forward, legs in front, using a double-bladed paddle to pull front-to-back on one side and then the other in rotation.
-
Single Kayak €9
-
Double Kayak / Canadian Canoe €18
Lovely venue, friendly helpful staff, lovely food, and good value! Brilliant!
Great for kids, they loved it. Very safe area, well organised and friendly.
We had such a lovely experience at this children’s activity complex! Yesterday, I brought two girls there, and they were absolutely delighted. 👌👌👌💯💯💯💯The water trampolines and kayaking were so much fun — they didn’t want to leave! What made it even more special was the incredibly kind and welcoming staff. Even though the park was already closing, they still allowed the children to enjoy kayaking, which meant so much to us. Their warmth and genuine care created such a positive atmosphere. We also had a small situation, and the way the staff handled it deserves special thanks. They were very attentive, helpful, and supportive, and we truly appreciate their kindness and effort.🙏 It’s truly a wonderful place for children to have fun, feel happy, and create great memories. I highly recommend it — we will definitely come back again!
Went paddle boarding with the kids and had a great day out.
We went Kayaking for 90+ mins and then on the inflatable water park for 45mins. The kids enjoyed them both equally. You are not allowed to bring your own food with you for snacks but they have food on site. It was a great few hours of fun and well worth the money
The Lagoon in Rosscarbery was an absolute hit, especially for the kids! We did the inflatable waterpark, which was super fun and well-organized—perfect for burning off energy and having a laugh together. The safety staff were great with the children and made everything feel secure but still exciting. Afterward, we relaxed at the on-site bar where the staff were incredibly kind and welcoming. It’s a fantastic spot for a family day out, combining adventure with a laid-back atmosphere. We’d definitely go back!
Water activity centre... great place for kids and adults to have a bit of fun in the water. Beautiful setting, with shaded covered gallery for eating and drinking.
The staff is very kind and extremely helpful. Thank you Paul, Jerry and Ciara. I did kayaking, standup paddle boat and the floating water park. It was an amazing experience and I had the best time at the lagoon activity center!
A large group of us did the waterpark obstacle course at the weekend. Would highly recommend for kids and adults alike!
My family loves the aqua park here lots of fun great value for money
Did the water park bit. Kids loved it. Would recommend wearing socks that you would get in trampoline places with rubber grip. Very tiring but good fun
Such a great day for all - enjoyable for kids and adults at an excellent price. Bring your spare socks because you need to wear yours out but having water shoes is even better. There's a shower area afterwards but it is just for a rinse and they ask you not to use soaps and shampoos there.
I took my son and three of his friends to the Lagoon today. We all had an absolute blast! The Water Park is so much fun. The slot is for 45 minutes which sounds short but you get so tired from all the climbing and hauling yourself out of the water that you realise it is the perfect amount of time. They give you a ten minute warning before the end so that you can have a few more goes on your favourite parts of the course. We finished the trip with a delicious pizza. The staff were all very helpful and friendly. A great day out!
Great fun, reasonable prices and helpful staff
The Lagoon Activity centre was extremely well runnIt is great fun for the family, from 8 years plus!nHighly recommend it, cant wait to go back
This was a surprising lovely day out for 2 mums 2 kids The aqua play thingy was hilarious and value for mon The pizzas and crepes were scrumptious And one of the kids spent 40 mins on a kayak for just 7 euro 😁😁 The poor mums were burnt coz they had not anticipated spending so long in the sunny sea breeze 🙈 Thank You Lagoon Activity Centre
Fun facilities and a lovely relaxed atmosphere at the centre. Very friendly staff at the centre base. Aqua park was fun but very daunting. Be prepared for essentially a slippery bouncy castle. Those in charge of the Aquapark we very unhelpful, bordering on rude. Myself and others were the ones pulling the dingy closer to the inflatable to help people on and off while they looked on. No positive interaction, just looked constantly bored by our existence and us possibly being in need of a hand. Nothing to wipe the very many cuts I witnessed on the way back. Those on shore were very helpful. Please remember that it is all of our first time on a wobbly, slippery inflatable in deep water that most of us are only on to keep out children happy. Our old bodies ache. It costs nothing to give us a fake smile and a hand onto wobbly polyethylene. In fact, it would go a really long way. You catch more flies with honey then with vinegar. Still had a great time though!
Had a fantastic day out as usual, our annual visit to the lagoon! Changing rooms and toliets spotless, staff amazing and very helpful. We did the waterpark which requires a good level of fitness but thats clearly started in the terms and conditions,very detailed safety talk, lifeguards on the ball as per usual. Overall a fantastic day out , we will most definitely be back, looking forward to next year already. nHighly recommend.
Booked for family of 4 as part of our holiday in West Cork and Paul the manager was very accommodating when we had a problem with the time we booked. We had great fun on the inflatables…kids loved the slide and the hamster wheel! There are lovely warm showers after too. Staff were great. We had previously been as a few times and and we will definitely be back again…it doesn’t get old!
Fantastic activity. Grandkids and an absolute brilliant day. Well worth a visit when in Rosscarberry
One of the highlights of the summer! As my son is only 11, I had to accompany him to the inflatable waterpark and it was so much fun. I am only a mediocre swimmer and was a bit apprehensive but the life jacket gives you great reassurance and I was soon enjoying things as much as the kids! The kids also enjoyed kayaking and the paddle boards. A fabulous day out!
Great craic, I went with my 9 year old son. Wrecked afterwards but definitely worth it. Looking forward to doing it again.
Brilliant, Went there with 4 kids aged between 8 and 13 plus a big 50yr lol. Kids loves every minute. Staff were great.
Great time kayaking first then water park we all had fun teens also had a great time just needs a little cleaning around water park some wood and rubbish floating around
Kids ages 8-12 enjoyed it, adult thought it was good. The only negative is that groups tend to take over a session too much. There was a group of about 10 teens and our kids couldn’t get on certain things (e.g. rotator) as the group took it over for most of the session. Lifeguard should break this kind of hoarding up. The place is run by very young staff (teens), punctual and polite but I do wonder how they would cope if a serious incident occurred. Overall 4 happy people, but not racing back
great place for kids & adults. great fun. Various water based activities available
Kids and hubbie had a ball. Wetsuits optional, all wore life jackets and everyone seemed to enjoy. A little boat brings you from the pier to the feature in the lagoon. Life guard supervised also. Great spot. Would return
What a fabulous way to spend 45 minutes. The kids loved it. Changing rooms a bit small but it was grand. Peddle boats need a wee bit of maintenance. We will be back.
Try also our other activities

Water Park
A picture of the Lagoon Activity Centre Waterpark with it's vibrant waterslides and obstacle courses.

Pedal Boats
Family fun renting a pedal boat at the Lagoon Activity Centre in Roscarbery, Co. Cork.

SUP
Two boys renting paddleboards in West Cork.
How To Get Here
Ideally located in Rosscarbery, Co. Cork, you can reach the Lagoon Activity Centre in just over an hour by car if you’re coming from Cork City (2 hours from Limerick, and just over an hour and a half on the 230 bus that departs from St.Patricks Quay, Cork City).
Renting a kayak offers you the opportunity to explore the beauty of our waters firsthand and enjoy an exhilarating outdoor adventure by kayaking West Cork. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful paddle along serene coastlines or an active exploration of hidden coves and wildlife habitats, kayaking provides a unique way to connect with nature and unwind. Our kayak rental service is equipped with all necessary gear, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for paddlers of all skill levels. Discover our little part of West Cork in the best way possible, through the freedom and tranquillity of kayaking with the Lagoon Activity Centre.
The main differences between a single kayak and a double kayak are based on their capacity and their overall design. The main differences are highlighted below.
Single Kayak:
A single kayak is designed to fit one paddler, the boat is slimmer and lighter by design, they are agile and easy to paddle with. A single kayak is perfect for those seeking a solo adventure!
Double Kayak:
A double kayak is designed to fit two paddlers, either front to back or by seating the paddlers side to side. Double kayaks are known for their width and their stability, in comparison to the single kayak. Great for an adventuring duo for longer trips or activities that benefit from working as a team.
Yes, the weather forecast is crucial as it directly affects sea conditions. It’s highly advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your kayaking session with us.
Safe kayaking requires suitable weather conditions. Conditions like strong winds, heavy rain, and storms are unsuitable for paddle boarding. Ideally, calm days with clear skies are optimal, especially for beginners and children. These conditions ensure better visibility, making it easier to spot other paddlers and potential hazards.
Good weather not only enhances safety but also improves the overall kayaking experience. Below, we’ve listed our recommended weather forecasting resources for checking local kayaking conditions before kayaking West Cork:
MET EIREANN NATIONAL FORECAST
WINDGURU
RAINFALL RADAR
SEA AREA FORECAST
SYNOPTIC/PRESSURE CHARTS
SHIPPING FORECAST
TIDES – CORK HARBOUR
Yes, we provide life jackets to all kayaking participants. Life jackets are essential safety equipment, providing buoyancy and keeping paddlers afloat in the water. Wearing a life jacket is mandatory for all those participating in our activities, regardless of their level of experience.
Yes, you can enhance your experience by eating at the Jack Shack restaurant, conveniently located next to the stunning Rosscarbery Lagoon. Enjoy a relaxing meal by the waterfront with our thoughtfully curated menu. For more details on our restaurant offerings, please visit Jack’s Shack.
Our kayaking activity is tailored for beginners, so there’s no need to purchase specialized water sports gear to enjoy our kayaks at the Lagoon Activity Centre. However, to enhance your experience, we suggest bringing the following items:
- Swimwear: Pack a suitable swimsuit, that you find comfortable to ensure you can fully enjoy your time kayaking at the Lagoon Activity Centre.
- Hat: Wearing a hat while kayaking acts as an additional barrier from the sun and protects your eyes from direct sunlight.
- Sunglasses: Sunglasses are essential for improving visibility, reducing eye strain from UV rays, and minimizing any potential glare from the sea during your kayaking adventure.
- Sunscreen: The weather at sea can change unexpectedly. It’s highly recommended to apply sunscreen before your water sports session to protect yourself from UV rays and prevent sunburn.
- Food and Drinks:
- While kayaking is an exhilarating activity, it’s a good idea to pack some food and drinks to stay hydrated and maintain your energy levels throughout your adventure.
- A Sense of Adventure:
- Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience kayaking West Cork and exploring the breathtaking scenery of Rosscarbery!